Abstract
The life history parameters of an acarid mite, Tyrophagus similis Volgin, were investigated at 10, 15, 20 and 25°C under a 14L-10D photoperiod. The total duration of the immature developmental stage was shorter at 25°C than at other temperatures, and the lifetime fecundity was greatest at 10°C (663.4/♀). The intrinsic rate of natural increase (rm), the net reproductive rate (R0) and the mean generation time (T) were rm=0.051, R0=190.05 and T=102.03 at 10°C; rm=0.085, R0=190.04 and T=61.43 at 15°C; rm=0.127, R0=125.37 and T=37.98 at 20°C; and rm=0.160, R0=36.57 and T=22.46 at 25°C. It is, thus, suggested that T. similis has the highest growth potential at 25°C, although lifetime fecundity was the lowest at this temperature. The survivorship of T. similis females at 25, 30, 35, 40 and 45°C was also investigated under a 14L-10D photoperiod. T. similis females showed a limited survival at 35°C and higher temperatures. In addition, their survival at 53, 66, 76, 87 and 100% RH was investigated at 20°C under a 14L-10D photoperiod. The females showed a limited survival at 53% and 66% RH.
